Survivors’ stories
If you’re struggling, Women’s Aid is here for you, whatever stage you are at. Recovering from abuse can take a long time, but it is possible with the right support. Whenever you’re ready, here are some of the ways you can find help:
- Speak to other women who have been where you are through Survivors’ Forum, our community for sharing experiences and supporting one another.
- Get in touch with your local service; they can offer a variety of options including refuge, helplines, counselling, advocacy, and more.
- Email a support worker confidentially and we will respond to you within 5 working days.
- Read the Survivors’ Handbook for practical support and information, including recognising unhealthy behaviour, safety planning, and mental health support.
Stories from survivors we’ve supported
“Looking back, there were red flags in our relationship from the start. Once we moved in together, he began to isolate me, refusing to let me even have phone calls with my family if it wasn’t on loudspeaker and he couldn’t hear. He would psychologically and emotionally abuse me, as well as verbally attack me. After years of experiencing coercive and controlling behaviour, I was sexually assaulted by my him on the day I had planned to leave him. I was at rock bottom.
Women’s Aid helped me through the darkest time of my life. Before being supported by them, I believed the way he had treated me throughout my relationship was my fault and that I deserved it. My self-esteem was the lowest it has ever been. Without Women’s Aid I would still be left in a dark place. I owe so much to them for bringing me back to me.”
“The 16 years I was with my husband I endured mental, physical, sexual & financial abuse. He isolated me from everyone and tracked my every move, email, phone call, and text. It was an impossible prison.
Women’s Aid helped in ways I’d have never thought of. They accompanied me to court and told me what to expect; they help me to understand how/why my husband was like he was; and most importantly, they showed me how to be strong, survive, and move forward. My sessions and support worker genuinely saved my life. She believed in me after feeling worthless for so long. Her advice was invaluable to both me and my children. Through working with Women’s Aid, I found my strength again. Now, my children and I have freedom.”
“The beginning of the relationship was good, and there were no issues, but soon after moving in together things began to change. First was the financial situation – he never had any money to help with food shops, bills, or things our child would need, but always managed to find money for football and to go out drinking. His moods would change quickly, and he would be snappy towards me. He would emotionally abuse me, constantly putting me down in front of people, laughing at me and calling me names. When I left, the support I got helped me to rebuild the self-esteem that he had destroyed and helped me grow into the confident woman I am today.”
